Help and Rescue

The responses of non-Jews during the Holocaust varied widely. The majority did nothing while Jews were rounded up and deported to camps and ghettos. Many were scared to put their lives and families at risk by helping. Others did not care what happened to the Jews. And some might have remained silent because they benefitted from jobs, possessions and homes left by deported Jews. 

Yet a small minority of people chose to help Jews, at great personal risk. Helpers provided hiding places, food, medicine and forged identity cards. Some helpers acted alone but most rescue efforts were carried out by groups of people working together. In a couple of countries, Denmark and Albania, the rescue of Jews was a nationwide undertaking. 

Diplomats and church officials were in a unique position to provide aid. They could issue visas and shelter Jews in their embassies, convents and orphanages.  

Helpers came from all religions, nationalities, social class and backgrounds. They were motivated by moral, religious or political beliefs to help both friends and strangers in need. Despite the danger, helpers were active in every European country. This was true even in occupied Eastern Europe, where the punishment for assisting Jews was death. 

In most cases, helpers had a history of aiding people in need. They acted according to their own beliefs and did not care what other people thought. Most did not plan to engage in rescue but did so when presented with the opportunity.